Events

Beavers, otters, mink, and muskrats are common furbearers that are seldom seen due to their habits and habitats. Beavers, otters, and muskrats can also cause a lot of damage to lakes and ponds if left unchecked. Learn the basics of setting traps to catch these animals in this seminar.

Ice fishing is a fun way to get outdoors and enjoy a cold winter day. Join us for an ice fishing lesson and a couple hours out on the ice catching fish.

We'll start the morning off at the Kansas City Regional Conservation Office where we will learn about ice fishing equipment and techniques as well as ice fishing and winter fishing safety. Then we'll head down to Prairie Hollow Lake for a fishing opportunity out on the ice.

Missouri Department of Conservation will provide equipment, bait, and fishing coaches. Dress warm and bring your own snacks and drinks to help you keep warm.

Fishing permits are not required to fish during this program.

Safe ice will be necessary for this program. In the event that weather and ice conditions are not acceptable for this program participant will be contacted.

Walk-in (all ages) Owls are without a doubt some of the most fascinating raptors we have the experience to observe in Missouri! Discover the mysteries of these regal birds as you observe live animal exhibits and participate in hands-on activities. Dissect an owl pellet to look for the treasures that lie within. Special live animal guests will be joining us from Lakeside Nature Center throughout the day. Whoooo knows, you may learn to speak their language! It'll be a hoot!

Walk-in (all ages)
Missouri River Bird Observatory staff and Burr Oak Woods partner in an on-going project to identify and track the birds that come to our feeders each winter. From the resident chickadees and cardinals to the migrating juncos and sparrows, we capture, apply colored bands and release these fascinating creatures. Once banded and recorded, you will be able to track individual birds through this and future seasons. This program is weather permitting.

Walk-in (all ages)
Discover what’s for dinner at Burr Oak Woods as the captive amphibians, fish and turtles enjoy their feast every Wednesday and Saturday.

Paracord weaving has become very popular in the past few years. Have you ever wanted to make your own key fob or survivor bracelet? This class will show you the basics of paracord weaving; we supply a variety of colors and beads to make your own creation, then take it with you!

Animals leave tracks everywhere they go. It takes a keen eye to notice them and a little knowledge to know what they are. Visit Parma Woods as we take a closer look at animal tracks and the animals that leave their footprints in Missouri. We will make some tracks of our own and then go find some animal tracks, so dress for the weather.

No registration required (all ages)
It’s almost time for wildlife babies again! What would happen if before picking up the phone or moving an animal you knew whether it really needs our help. Come learn some tips on determining if that baby animal requires “rescuing” or not. (Baby Season Part 2, Saturday, March 21, 2020, 10 AM-2PM)

Registration required (families with children ages 6–13)
Join us to discover the mysterious world of owls. Owls have incredible adaptations that make them awesome nocturnal hunters. We will learn about these amazing birds, dissect some owl pellets and even go outside and call to find out just WHOOOO lives at Burr Oak Woods.

Registration required (adults) With a new year comes a new program at the Discovery Center. Good Morning Nature is for all you early risers. This program will meet on the second Friday of each month and will include various nature topics as well as opportunities to learn from each other. February will be all about sap collection and the process to make syrup. There will be ample time outdoors at the Discovery Center as we check the sap buckets and learn about trees that can be tapped.

This is a Women's ONLY class. Instructors will provide information on the different types of firearms, ammunition, marksmanship skills and care and cleaning, pus much more. There will be a live-fire session; bring your own firearm or use ours!

Walk-in (ages 3-8; all welcome) Join volunteer naturalists for a fantastic journey through forests, streams and other magical places as they read select books. Children will participate in a hands-on nature activity.